Reed collects, spends the most in race for Tupelo mayor

TUPELO – Republican mayoral candidate Jack Reed Jr. has outraised and outspent his three opponents in the race for City Hall by tens of thousands of dollars.
Reed earned $97,041 in campaign contributions since launching his bid for office, compared to $38,289 for Democrat Doyce Deas, $6,592 for Republican James R. Presley, and $1,760 for Democrat Kentrel Boyd.
At the same time, Reed spent $45,015 to run his campaign, while Deas shelled out $34,842, Presley paid $5,959, and Boyd gave $1,535.
“I am humbled and honored to receive such tremendous support in our campaign to make Tupelo better together,” Reed said in a press release. “This local campaign is a team effort and the hard work and generous donations of many is building our momentum for what we believe will be a successful primary election … .”
Deas said she could likely match Reed in campaign contributions if she includes money promised but not yet given. She also said she doesn’t have a phone bank calling for donations.
“I have raised every penny I’ve gotten on my own – it’s been small contributions,” Deas said. “It’s tough because of the economic climate, so I am very grateful for the large number of people willing to support me in any amount they’re able to do.”
Reed and Presley meet in Tuesday’s primary election, as do Boyd and Deas. The winner of each will advance to the June 2 general election, where one will be voted mayor for the next four years.
By law, all municipal candidates must submit reports to City Hall listing campaign contributions and itemizing political expenses between Jan. 1 and April 25. They also must name donors who gave more than $200.
Reed had 80 donors over the $200 mark; Deas had 32, including herself; Presley had two, including himself; Boyd had one, which was himself.
The contribution reports were due Tuesday. They also included 27 of the 28 candidates running for City Council. Ward 1 candidate Cliff Brinkley didn’t yet submit his, according to the city clerk’s office.
Among those who did, Ward 6 Republican incumbent candidate Mike Bryan raised the most with $7,994. He also spent the most with $6,481.
Both Bryan and Reed had additional reports, because they started raising money upon launching their campaigns late last year.
Deas didn’t officially kick off her mayoral bid until early January, and Boyd and Presley waited until late February.